Last time we visited Weber State University it was to note the existence of a forthcoming volume on The Undead and Philosophy. Now comes a more worthy venture: Bob Dylan and Philosophy. Suggested paper topics include: What It’s Like to be a Rolling Stone; Dylan’s solution to the Toxin Puzzle – Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright; and The Philosophical Significance of Wiggle Wiggle.

Can I claim first dibs on Harry Potter and Philosophy, or has that already been taken?

Here’s the full call for papers.

Bob Dylan and Philosophy
Peter Vernezze & Carl Porter, Editors

Abstracts are sought for a collection of philosophical essays on Bob Dylan. The editors are currently in discussion with Open Court Press (The publisher of The Simpsons and Philosophy, The Matrix and Philosophy, and the forthcoming The Sopranos and Philosophy, etc.) regarding the inclusion of this collection in their “Popular Culture and Philosophy” series. We are seeking abstracts, but anyone who has already written an unpublished paper on this topic may submit it in its entirety. Potential contributors may want to examine other volumes in the Open Court Series.

The book plans to focus on all aspects of the work and life of Bob Dylan. Although we expect the study of his lyrics will form the core of the work, we also plan on including analysis from his work in other mediums such as film and poetry, as well as an examination of his role as a public figure, etc. Some obvious areas for papers include the history of philosophy, ethics, social and political philosophy, philosophy of religion, aesthetics, and philosophy of language. But papers in any area of philosophy will be considered.

Please feel free to forward this to anyone writing within a philosophic discipline who might be interested in contributing.
Contributor Guidelines:
1. Abstract of paper (100-750 words)
2. Resume/CV for each author/co-author of the paper
3. Initial submission may be by mail or email
4. Submission deadline: January 15th 2004

Mail:
Peter Vernezze
Department of Political Science and Philosophy
Weber State University
1203 University Circle
Ogden, UT 84408-1203

Thanks to Neil Levy for the link.